I stayed late to watch the Euro Cup 1st.leg semifinal between MU and Arsenal. MU line up was all right for me and the strategy was to score as many goals as possible and not to concede one. MU got a goal on the 17th.minute by a midfielder and I was thinking by the way MU was playing they were going to slaughter Arsenal. MU tried several shots on target but Arsenal goalkeeper saved several of sure goals. After the goal MU started to loose focus and Arsenal was controlling the second period of the first half.
During the second half MU tried to put in as many goals but Arsenal goalkeeper was intact, exceptionally alert and brilliant. MU brought in Berbatov and Ryan Giggs in the second half but the score remain 1-0 to MU favor. For record, Giggs was playing his 800 games with MU.
The 1 – 0 score line is not good enough for MU to bring to 2nd leg semifinal at the Reebok Stadium. I predicted the finalist would be decided by penalty kick and it would go either way. MU is defending its title as the current holder of the Euro Cup.
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Silly.
I was in the warong in the afternoon to buy some additional cookies for lunch. A kancil driven by a young lady stopped by with the engine on and a three year old son left alone in the car. The mother was busy buying something in the warong and the child was busy in the car playing with the window and the wiper. I apprehended the lady and told her nicely that she better switched off the car engine before anything nasty could happen. It was really silly of her to leave the child alone in the car with the engine on. I don’t care whether she like the way I told her of because what I did was for the good of her own child.
It reminded me of my neighbor who got his two children trapped in the car for two hours recently and I don’t want that to reoccur. As an old man, it’s my duty to render advice, whether she likes it or not it’s none of my business and as far as I am concern I have done my part.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Latest in my kampong.
The kampong received a new hearse (van jenazah) as written at the back of the hearse. The model: Toyota Estima. This car was once my dream car and I think it is not suitable as a hearse. There is no partition between the Driver and the coffin stand. It would pose a problem if the Driver is alone delivering the jenazah to and from a particular destination. Whatever, the Mosque Committee had decided on Toyota Estima and the kampong residents had to accept. The dead will now make the last journey in style with air condition.
Coming 01 June 2009, a new Mosque Committee will take over the Mosque administration. There were three nominations for Nazir (Chairman) and Jabatan Agama Islam Selangor had not decided whom to pick. The position of a Nazir must be someone who is able to stand in as an Imam, recite the doa, accepted by the majority of the kampong resident and knowledgeable. As it is, all the three candidates do not meet the criteria. I foresee a potential problem would arise where politic would be drag into the Nazir appointment scenario. I disagree with politic in the Mosque as everybody would be facing the same direction when performing the daily prayers. Unity must prevail in the Mosque.
A new Mosque is in the drawing board, costing about 12 million. Just before the political tsunami, BN government approved the project and awarded to the family of late Zakaria Mat Derus. When the PR government took over the state of Selangor, the project collapsed due to the Contractor could not proceed and to make things worst, Zakaria himself kicked the bucket. I was involved in the initial new Mosque committee but later I resigned due to health problem. The new Mosque committee had collected quite a substantial amount of fund for this new Mosque and they even ordered a new make to order beautiful mihrab. When the new Jawatan Kuasa Kampong was form by the PR government, the JKK wanted to take over the new Mosque committee. JAIS had to intervene and they stated that construction of this new Mosque is directly under JAIS and nothing to do with JKK. A meeting was finally held and the Orang Besar Daerah (OBD), the representative of the Sultan declared that the Sultan had proclaimed Places of worship (eg. Mosque), Schools and Hospitals cannot be politicized in Selangor. JKK remain unhappy and the present new Mosque committee resumes operating as usual.
The General Meeting of the Kampong Khairat Kematian is still not held. In fact it was not held for the past six years and the accounts were in total mess. At the last meeting it was suspended due to the disorderly manner the accounts statement was presented. It could not be resolved even after the cows came home and the best solution was suspension to a later date. What is troubling me is, it’s the same people who manage the khairat kematian is going to take over the Mosque committee in June. So, help me God.
The kampong residents are complaining that it’s expensive to die in this kampong. You need in the region of RM 1000 to pay all expenses. The management of the jenazah is being handled by a certain individual and a price is set for a certain ritual. The rituals are: The loin cloth, the last bath, grave digging, the coffin, service of the imam, the hearse etc with a fixed price. For someone who is a member of the khairat kematian, a certain amount of subsidy would be given. If you are over 60 and registered with the PR government, the state would donate RM 3500 if you kick the bucket. I am happy I fall into that category. For someone who is below 60 and not a member of the khairat kematian an amount of about RM 1000 had to be in hand. As stated by the individual concern, to be cheap, have your own bath (referring to the jenazah). I have no further comment.
Note: I have decided not to sit in any committee in the kampong. Even though I am a PAS member and part of the PR government, I disagree with certain policy that the JKK is implementing in the kampong. Unity is top priority in any kampong or community but the JKK is not going towards it. They are going towards division and only of their kinds and political ideology. They are vindictive. When the BN government was in power, they were sideline and now when they are in power they showed strength. I think it’s not Islamic. They should reciprocate by inviting the BN followers to sit at the same table and manage the kampong welfare together. The majority of the kampong people are Malays and if they can’t even unite the Malays, how in the hell they want to unite the various races.
I believe when you render a service to the Mosque or to society it must be sincere from the heart in the name of Allah. If you expect monetary gain, then your good deed will just go down the drain and one have to answer on the Day of Judgment.
Coming 01 June 2009, a new Mosque Committee will take over the Mosque administration. There were three nominations for Nazir (Chairman) and Jabatan Agama Islam Selangor had not decided whom to pick. The position of a Nazir must be someone who is able to stand in as an Imam, recite the doa, accepted by the majority of the kampong resident and knowledgeable. As it is, all the three candidates do not meet the criteria. I foresee a potential problem would arise where politic would be drag into the Nazir appointment scenario. I disagree with politic in the Mosque as everybody would be facing the same direction when performing the daily prayers. Unity must prevail in the Mosque.
A new Mosque is in the drawing board, costing about 12 million. Just before the political tsunami, BN government approved the project and awarded to the family of late Zakaria Mat Derus. When the PR government took over the state of Selangor, the project collapsed due to the Contractor could not proceed and to make things worst, Zakaria himself kicked the bucket. I was involved in the initial new Mosque committee but later I resigned due to health problem. The new Mosque committee had collected quite a substantial amount of fund for this new Mosque and they even ordered a new make to order beautiful mihrab. When the new Jawatan Kuasa Kampong was form by the PR government, the JKK wanted to take over the new Mosque committee. JAIS had to intervene and they stated that construction of this new Mosque is directly under JAIS and nothing to do with JKK. A meeting was finally held and the Orang Besar Daerah (OBD), the representative of the Sultan declared that the Sultan had proclaimed Places of worship (eg. Mosque), Schools and Hospitals cannot be politicized in Selangor. JKK remain unhappy and the present new Mosque committee resumes operating as usual.
The General Meeting of the Kampong Khairat Kematian is still not held. In fact it was not held for the past six years and the accounts were in total mess. At the last meeting it was suspended due to the disorderly manner the accounts statement was presented. It could not be resolved even after the cows came home and the best solution was suspension to a later date. What is troubling me is, it’s the same people who manage the khairat kematian is going to take over the Mosque committee in June. So, help me God.
The kampong residents are complaining that it’s expensive to die in this kampong. You need in the region of RM 1000 to pay all expenses. The management of the jenazah is being handled by a certain individual and a price is set for a certain ritual. The rituals are: The loin cloth, the last bath, grave digging, the coffin, service of the imam, the hearse etc with a fixed price. For someone who is a member of the khairat kematian, a certain amount of subsidy would be given. If you are over 60 and registered with the PR government, the state would donate RM 3500 if you kick the bucket. I am happy I fall into that category. For someone who is below 60 and not a member of the khairat kematian an amount of about RM 1000 had to be in hand. As stated by the individual concern, to be cheap, have your own bath (referring to the jenazah). I have no further comment.
Note: I have decided not to sit in any committee in the kampong. Even though I am a PAS member and part of the PR government, I disagree with certain policy that the JKK is implementing in the kampong. Unity is top priority in any kampong or community but the JKK is not going towards it. They are going towards division and only of their kinds and political ideology. They are vindictive. When the BN government was in power, they were sideline and now when they are in power they showed strength. I think it’s not Islamic. They should reciprocate by inviting the BN followers to sit at the same table and manage the kampong welfare together. The majority of the kampong people are Malays and if they can’t even unite the Malays, how in the hell they want to unite the various races.
I believe when you render a service to the Mosque or to society it must be sincere from the heart in the name of Allah. If you expect monetary gain, then your good deed will just go down the drain and one have to answer on the Day of Judgment.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Headaches.
How can you elect someone when you very well know that he had been found guilty? This is exactly what happened when the new PM elected Ali Rustam as Head of UMNO in Melaka and retain him as Head of State. This, I do not understand. By my definition of someone has been found guilty of money politicking, he should be removed of any portfolio that he is holding. On the same aspect, why KJ was not elected to the UMNO Supreme Council when he is the elected Head of UMNO Youth? KJ was found guilty of money politicking but got away with just a warning, a sentence lesser than Ali Rustam got. I begin to believe that UMNO is condoning money politic and it is a norm in that organization. I better keep my distance because it is a political party full of bullshit.
Talking about shit, UMNO turn my home state Perak to shits. My fellow Perakians is in shamble where their direction is indecisive between the legitimate and illegitimate Menteri Besar. By virtue of democratic election, Pakatan Rakyat government is still in place in Perak. However, with the coup, Perak now is in the hand of Barisan Nasional with the three frogs aligning to them. That make them the majority, they claimed. My foot! Those three frogs had virtually resigned but to my amazement, the Election Commission did not recognize their resignation letters. What is the function of the Election Commission? Their main function is to conduct election and not their duty to recognize resignation letter. That’s why I said; there are plenty of shits around, so much so I begin to deduce this country had far swayed from democracy. Constitution, law and order only suit them best, for others to their whim and fancy. They can change it like changing underwear. (I doubt they wear one). I know someone who never wear underwear and his brain and heart never synchronies. Perhaps all logical and reasonable decisions goes down to the sagging balls.
Once upon a time the Mufti of Perak declared that TV3 sponsored Jom Heboh or Sure Heboh is haram. It is against the Islamic teaching where male and female mix freely. To my surprise, how come the Carnival was held in Lumut Perak last weekend the Mufti did not declared as haram??? In Islam, haram is still haram, there is no two way about it. I am very sad that for political convenient an Islamic decree can be twisted to their advantage. I still remember my late uncle, Dato Haji Ghazali Abdullah who was the Mufti of two states, the state of Selangor and Perak. He was the first Mufti not to sembah the Royalty. He only bowed down as a sign of respect. His reason: Human being only sembah to Allah, not to any other human being. I totally agree with him. This grand old man accompanied me to my akad nikah (wedding solemnization) ceremony and his presence makes my journey plain and smooth. Thank you…Babah.
---------------------------
Incidently, today is my (our) 36th wedding anniversary. I totally forgotten about until my daughter reminded me. My son sponsored a Thai food dinner at Serai in Shah Alam. Phew! time really flies and yours truly is still faithful to one. One wife and two kids. No additions neccessary.
Talking about shit, UMNO turn my home state Perak to shits. My fellow Perakians is in shamble where their direction is indecisive between the legitimate and illegitimate Menteri Besar. By virtue of democratic election, Pakatan Rakyat government is still in place in Perak. However, with the coup, Perak now is in the hand of Barisan Nasional with the three frogs aligning to them. That make them the majority, they claimed. My foot! Those three frogs had virtually resigned but to my amazement, the Election Commission did not recognize their resignation letters. What is the function of the Election Commission? Their main function is to conduct election and not their duty to recognize resignation letter. That’s why I said; there are plenty of shits around, so much so I begin to deduce this country had far swayed from democracy. Constitution, law and order only suit them best, for others to their whim and fancy. They can change it like changing underwear. (I doubt they wear one). I know someone who never wear underwear and his brain and heart never synchronies. Perhaps all logical and reasonable decisions goes down to the sagging balls.
Once upon a time the Mufti of Perak declared that TV3 sponsored Jom Heboh or Sure Heboh is haram. It is against the Islamic teaching where male and female mix freely. To my surprise, how come the Carnival was held in Lumut Perak last weekend the Mufti did not declared as haram??? In Islam, haram is still haram, there is no two way about it. I am very sad that for political convenient an Islamic decree can be twisted to their advantage. I still remember my late uncle, Dato Haji Ghazali Abdullah who was the Mufti of two states, the state of Selangor and Perak. He was the first Mufti not to sembah the Royalty. He only bowed down as a sign of respect. His reason: Human being only sembah to Allah, not to any other human being. I totally agree with him. This grand old man accompanied me to my akad nikah (wedding solemnization) ceremony and his presence makes my journey plain and smooth. Thank you…Babah.
---------------------------
Incidently, today is my (our) 36th wedding anniversary. I totally forgotten about until my daughter reminded me. My son sponsored a Thai food dinner at Serai in Shah Alam. Phew! time really flies and yours truly is still faithful to one. One wife and two kids. No additions neccessary.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Memory - My father.
The saddest day of my life was 4 April 1978. My late father, Haji Abdul Hamid Abdullah succumbed to his death due to intra cranial hemorrhage. He was knocked down by a motorcyclist while he was crossing the street in front of Yusufia Restaurant in the middle of Teluk Intan town. He was 72.
On the fateful morning my father accompanied the Estate Manager to collect the workers monthly wages from the Bank. My late father was assigned as Owner’s Representative to the Estate. After handing over the denominations slip to the Bank, my father, the Manager and the Driver decided to have their breakfast at the Restaurant across the Bank. After breakfast my father decided to visit the washroom instead while the Manager and the driver proceeded to cross the street. As my father was crossing the street by himself, a bloody stupid motorcyclist riding just a Honda cub, must be speeding, knocked my father by the right leg. The impact threw off my father and his head knocked the street divider. His right leg was broken but the biggest damage was the impact of his head at the concrete divider. He was rushed immediately to Teluk Intan District Hospital by the Estate Land Rover. Due to profuse bleeding, the Doctor in attendance Doctor Loh Yan could not save my fathers life. My late father drew his last breath sometimes at 1400 hours of the same day.
I got the message at about 5 in the evening, after office when my neighbor who had a house phone summoned me to his house to call my aunty in Ipoh who had an urgent message for me. When I spoke to my aunty she summoned me to go home soonest possible to my ancestral home in Bota. I knew something was not right and she broke the bad news. I was stunned and speechless for a moment. Incidentally, my younger brother and sister had just arrived from Ipoh at my house for a visit. I had to keep a secret not to alarm them but I quietly told my wife about the mishap. We quickly packed my two small kids, the family and I requested my brother in law to accompany me as a second Driver. My faithful Volvo 144 took us down the old highway and with Allah grace the journey was trouble free.
I finally arrived at my ancestral home at 3 in the morning and I saw several cars had already arrived and the house was brightly lit. My siblings were asking me what’s going on. I slowly informed them that late father had passed away and I warned them to remain calm and to accept the fate that Allah had bestowed upon us. We were the last children to arrive. I step up into the house and with tears rolling my cheek I stared at my father’s motionless body lying in state. All my brothers, sisters, in laws and close relatives were already there.
The next morning at 10 we performed the last bath and we put his body on our lap. The last prayer was conducted by my uncle, the Mufti of Perak. We solemnly buried and laid our father at Padang Tenggala Burial ground.
The last time I met my father in person was when I gave him a lift after my sister engagement ceremony. I was on my way back to Port Klang and he wanted to meet my uncle in Sungkai. I remember we had lunch together at my uncle’s place. I was deeply touched during his last breath he was wearing the Omega wrist watch which I bought for him in Singapore. I always remember the day I took him to Cameron Highland. We had lunch at the Government Rest House at Tanah Rata and later for tea at Merlin Hotel just opposite the golf course. In one or two occasions he had visited me in Port Dickson and he had good time at the beaches.
Due to the unforeseen accident, I bar myself and my children from riding a motorcycle less owning one. I hate motorcyclists and I despise Mat Rempit. If they cross my way, I would not hesitate to knock them down. They are menace to society and they belong to the category of people who are brainless.
Thirty over years had passed but the sad memory still linger. Without fail, at every Hari Raya or any other day convenient to me I would pay a visit to my father’s grave. He left me no riches but he gave me education so that I can seek richness.
On the fateful morning my father accompanied the Estate Manager to collect the workers monthly wages from the Bank. My late father was assigned as Owner’s Representative to the Estate. After handing over the denominations slip to the Bank, my father, the Manager and the Driver decided to have their breakfast at the Restaurant across the Bank. After breakfast my father decided to visit the washroom instead while the Manager and the driver proceeded to cross the street. As my father was crossing the street by himself, a bloody stupid motorcyclist riding just a Honda cub, must be speeding, knocked my father by the right leg. The impact threw off my father and his head knocked the street divider. His right leg was broken but the biggest damage was the impact of his head at the concrete divider. He was rushed immediately to Teluk Intan District Hospital by the Estate Land Rover. Due to profuse bleeding, the Doctor in attendance Doctor Loh Yan could not save my fathers life. My late father drew his last breath sometimes at 1400 hours of the same day.
I got the message at about 5 in the evening, after office when my neighbor who had a house phone summoned me to his house to call my aunty in Ipoh who had an urgent message for me. When I spoke to my aunty she summoned me to go home soonest possible to my ancestral home in Bota. I knew something was not right and she broke the bad news. I was stunned and speechless for a moment. Incidentally, my younger brother and sister had just arrived from Ipoh at my house for a visit. I had to keep a secret not to alarm them but I quietly told my wife about the mishap. We quickly packed my two small kids, the family and I requested my brother in law to accompany me as a second Driver. My faithful Volvo 144 took us down the old highway and with Allah grace the journey was trouble free.
I finally arrived at my ancestral home at 3 in the morning and I saw several cars had already arrived and the house was brightly lit. My siblings were asking me what’s going on. I slowly informed them that late father had passed away and I warned them to remain calm and to accept the fate that Allah had bestowed upon us. We were the last children to arrive. I step up into the house and with tears rolling my cheek I stared at my father’s motionless body lying in state. All my brothers, sisters, in laws and close relatives were already there.
The next morning at 10 we performed the last bath and we put his body on our lap. The last prayer was conducted by my uncle, the Mufti of Perak. We solemnly buried and laid our father at Padang Tenggala Burial ground.
The last time I met my father in person was when I gave him a lift after my sister engagement ceremony. I was on my way back to Port Klang and he wanted to meet my uncle in Sungkai. I remember we had lunch together at my uncle’s place. I was deeply touched during his last breath he was wearing the Omega wrist watch which I bought for him in Singapore. I always remember the day I took him to Cameron Highland. We had lunch at the Government Rest House at Tanah Rata and later for tea at Merlin Hotel just opposite the golf course. In one or two occasions he had visited me in Port Dickson and he had good time at the beaches.
Due to the unforeseen accident, I bar myself and my children from riding a motorcycle less owning one. I hate motorcyclists and I despise Mat Rempit. If they cross my way, I would not hesitate to knock them down. They are menace to society and they belong to the category of people who are brainless.
Thirty over years had passed but the sad memory still linger. Without fail, at every Hari Raya or any other day convenient to me I would pay a visit to my father’s grave. He left me no riches but he gave me education so that I can seek richness.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
MU VS SPURS.
I had to watch this game even though it was past midnight. Earlier, Liverpool beat Hull by 2 - 1 and Liverpool occupied the top spot in the table.
MU line up was an improvement from the previous game of MU/ Everton. Van Der Sarr back at goal and Ronaldo, Rooney, Berbatov, Nani capable of scoring goals upfront. MU was overconfident and they played their usual game of possession football and frequently sending back the ball to the goalkeeper. I hate this tactic as it is not an attacking football. MU midfield and defenders went to sleep and in no time Spurs went two goals past them. I was damn furious and I decided to switch channel and revert during the second half.
During the second half Nani was replaced by Teves, Rooney was relocated as left winger and MU changed tactic to attacking football. This was what I wanted to see. MU got a penalty and Ronaldo made no mistake. From there on, MU did not look back and they scored another four goals. From two goals down, MU now five up. Ronaldo 2, Rooney 2 and Berbatov 1. The final score 5 – 2. MU could have added more if they were more on target. MU now back as the leader board. For the first 50 minutes of playing time, Liverpool fans around the world were celebrating when MU was two goals down.
As I see it, MU normally very complacent and they are usually contented with a goal win. When they win I tend to get fed up watching them playing because they are just knocking the ball to another fellow player and finally kicking the ball to the goalkeeper. Last night it was an interesting game because MU really did play football because they were two goals down.
MU line up was an improvement from the previous game of MU/ Everton. Van Der Sarr back at goal and Ronaldo, Rooney, Berbatov, Nani capable of scoring goals upfront. MU was overconfident and they played their usual game of possession football and frequently sending back the ball to the goalkeeper. I hate this tactic as it is not an attacking football. MU midfield and defenders went to sleep and in no time Spurs went two goals past them. I was damn furious and I decided to switch channel and revert during the second half.
During the second half Nani was replaced by Teves, Rooney was relocated as left winger and MU changed tactic to attacking football. This was what I wanted to see. MU got a penalty and Ronaldo made no mistake. From there on, MU did not look back and they scored another four goals. From two goals down, MU now five up. Ronaldo 2, Rooney 2 and Berbatov 1. The final score 5 – 2. MU could have added more if they were more on target. MU now back as the leader board. For the first 50 minutes of playing time, Liverpool fans around the world were celebrating when MU was two goals down.
As I see it, MU normally very complacent and they are usually contented with a goal win. When they win I tend to get fed up watching them playing because they are just knocking the ball to another fellow player and finally kicking the ball to the goalkeeper. Last night it was an interesting game because MU really did play football because they were two goals down.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Another invitation.
While waiting for the Friday prayer, I was browsing the New Straits Times sport pages. I smiled to myself when Chelsea gave up the BPL title.
My hand phone rang and I did not know who the caller was. The caller asked whether I was already in the Mosque and I replied it was still early. The caller voice sounds familiar and it was Haji Bakir, from Melaka. He went straight to the topic that he and his wife intended to perform the Ramadhan umrah from 22 August to 19 September vide Andalusia by Gulf Air. He asked me to join him. I am still considering the offer as it would be a stop over in Baharain and the cost incurred would be RM 8690. In 2007 we performed the Ramadhan umrah together and during a night transit at Abu Dhabi we toured the city. I personally had not been to Baharain and maybe it is a good idea to join him. I am still venturing for better prospect.
Last year Ramadhan umrah, Haji Bakir was my constant buddy even though he was staying in different Hotel and with different Travel Agent. We caught up with each other in Mekah. I first met Haji Bakir when he was one of my fifteen room mates during Haj way back in 1999. Since then we became good friends and we have mutual respect and understanding. A very down to earth man, humble and would go out of his way to assist where he can. He was in the army technical wing, now retired and operating a Café at Terendak Camp. A very good cook and he single handedly prepared the dishes during his children weddings.
Human do the planning but only Allah will destined.
My hand phone rang and I did not know who the caller was. The caller asked whether I was already in the Mosque and I replied it was still early. The caller voice sounds familiar and it was Haji Bakir, from Melaka. He went straight to the topic that he and his wife intended to perform the Ramadhan umrah from 22 August to 19 September vide Andalusia by Gulf Air. He asked me to join him. I am still considering the offer as it would be a stop over in Baharain and the cost incurred would be RM 8690. In 2007 we performed the Ramadhan umrah together and during a night transit at Abu Dhabi we toured the city. I personally had not been to Baharain and maybe it is a good idea to join him. I am still venturing for better prospect.
Last year Ramadhan umrah, Haji Bakir was my constant buddy even though he was staying in different Hotel and with different Travel Agent. We caught up with each other in Mekah. I first met Haji Bakir when he was one of my fifteen room mates during Haj way back in 1999. Since then we became good friends and we have mutual respect and understanding. A very down to earth man, humble and would go out of his way to assist where he can. He was in the army technical wing, now retired and operating a Café at Terendak Camp. A very good cook and he single handedly prepared the dishes during his children weddings.
Human do the planning but only Allah will destined.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Not decided.
Approximately four months from now, the best month of the Muslim calendar will appear, the month of Ramadhan. It’s the fasting month and all devoted Muslims will fast pray and render good deeds for the blessing of Almighty Allah. Those who can afford would do a pilgrimage to the Holy Land to perform the rituals as stipulated during the month of Ramadhan. This year the cost would escalate between 9k to 10k, all included board, lodging, transport and airfare.
I was in the Holy Land for the past four Ramadhans and for this year I have not decided which particular Tour Agent I would join. I am really glad that this week I received four calls inquiring whether I would be going and they invited me to join them. One of them was the last year Tour Operator and he declared his terms. I politely turned down his invitation and offer due to the unforeseen incident I encountered last year when I joined his grouping. Honestly I told him my mission to the Holy Land is to submit to Allah and I want peace of mind in the company of well behaved Muslims. Ego and titles should be left behind at KLIA and can be collected upon arrival from the Holy Land. Haji Hassan Yatim understands my last year predicament and he would revert if the line is clear from undesirable species. He promised to drop by at my place whenever he is in Klang area.
Pak Wan, my last year 15 days roommate also called to inquire about my Ramadhan program. Haji Faharuddin invited me to join him and his wife as they had found an alternate Tour Operator and the Hotel is nearer to the Grand Mosque. I told him I am keeping in view. Haji Ahmad Fadillah who stayed in the same Hotel with me last year also hinted about a new found Tour Operator and the cost could only be decided after May 2009. I am considering.
I am touch by those people who take the trouble to remember me and like me to be in their company at the Holy Land. If I were snobbish as a fellow jema’ah surely they don’t care less and ignore of my existence. In the Holy Land it pays to be humble and nice to people. The nawaitu (intention) is important for Allah knows and notice.
My wife advised me to join the reputable Andalusia who is an expert on umrah tour. I had joined them once during the umrah/Egypt trip early 2008 and the service, satisfactory. I am still considering because they are handling in big numbers of Pilgrims.
Whatever….I had not made my mind which Tour Agent to choose. Insyaallah or GOD willing I would be making my 5th.year consecutive trip for Ramadhan umrah. I hope and doa that I am one of His invitees. Thou seek good health.
Help me dear Allah, for this humble soul is surrendering to you and please guide me to the right path and distance me from all evils and devils. Thou seek your protection in life, hereafter and hellfire.
I was in the Holy Land for the past four Ramadhans and for this year I have not decided which particular Tour Agent I would join. I am really glad that this week I received four calls inquiring whether I would be going and they invited me to join them. One of them was the last year Tour Operator and he declared his terms. I politely turned down his invitation and offer due to the unforeseen incident I encountered last year when I joined his grouping. Honestly I told him my mission to the Holy Land is to submit to Allah and I want peace of mind in the company of well behaved Muslims. Ego and titles should be left behind at KLIA and can be collected upon arrival from the Holy Land. Haji Hassan Yatim understands my last year predicament and he would revert if the line is clear from undesirable species. He promised to drop by at my place whenever he is in Klang area.
Pak Wan, my last year 15 days roommate also called to inquire about my Ramadhan program. Haji Faharuddin invited me to join him and his wife as they had found an alternate Tour Operator and the Hotel is nearer to the Grand Mosque. I told him I am keeping in view. Haji Ahmad Fadillah who stayed in the same Hotel with me last year also hinted about a new found Tour Operator and the cost could only be decided after May 2009. I am considering.
I am touch by those people who take the trouble to remember me and like me to be in their company at the Holy Land. If I were snobbish as a fellow jema’ah surely they don’t care less and ignore of my existence. In the Holy Land it pays to be humble and nice to people. The nawaitu (intention) is important for Allah knows and notice.
My wife advised me to join the reputable Andalusia who is an expert on umrah tour. I had joined them once during the umrah/Egypt trip early 2008 and the service, satisfactory. I am still considering because they are handling in big numbers of Pilgrims.
Whatever….I had not made my mind which Tour Agent to choose. Insyaallah or GOD willing I would be making my 5th.year consecutive trip for Ramadhan umrah. I hope and doa that I am one of His invitees. Thou seek good health.
Help me dear Allah, for this humble soul is surrendering to you and please guide me to the right path and distance me from all evils and devils. Thou seek your protection in life, hereafter and hellfire.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
He is back.
Malaysia as 21st.April 2009.
Mahathir is back, after Pak Lah gave up his premiership due to pressures from all corners inside out. The loudest critic came from Mahathir himself and now with Najib is at the helm, Mahathir is back in the limelight. Who is the actual Prime Minister now? I am confused. Mahathir wants the crooked bridge to be reinstalled and the teaching of English for mathematics and science to continue in spite of several objections from all quarters. Najib had in mind not to participate in the Penanti bye election but Mahathir insisted and he wants to lead the BN pact to wrestle the seat from Anwar political party. Mahathir really hate Anwar’s gut. The rakyat is watching where Najib is heading to. Mahathirsm???
Mahathir is a figure always associate with figures. He started with 2M. Mahathir and Musa but Musa resigned. Mahathir ordered Musa to attack Memali and at the same time Mahathir left for China. Musa got the blame for the fiasco. Later Mahathir introduced 3M. Menulis, membaca dan mengira. That policy was quietly forgotten and replaced with teaching of mathematic and science subjects in English. Only the 2 subjects but he failed to emphasis on teaching of the English language itself. If the command of English is poor how in the hell you want to teach mathematics and science in English? After he retired, and Pak Lah became the Prime Minister another figure troubled Mahathir, the guys at 4th floor. He said the 4th floor boys ran the government and KJ, Pak Lah son in law became his bitter enemy. The feud was so bad that KJ was not even considered any cabinet post in Najib administration. On the other hand, Mahathir’s son who lost in the UMNO Youth Chief election was appointed as Deputy Minister of Trade. Who is the real Prime Minister now? The rakyat is thinking probably the nation is having 2 Prime Ministers or even 3. Who knows? Najib is indebted to the old man. Mahathir could easily finish him off when Najib was the Menteri Besar of Pahang. Instead Mahathir being a smart manipulator used his trump card to lure Najib to support him during the Mahathir/ Tengku Razaleigh fight for the UMNO Presidency, otherwise, Pulau Tioman legenda would be made public. The end result, Mahathir ruled for 22 years.
Mahathir used to say, Melayu mudah lupa (Malays easily forgot). Sorry Sir, this Melayu always remember.
Mahathir is back, after Pak Lah gave up his premiership due to pressures from all corners inside out. The loudest critic came from Mahathir himself and now with Najib is at the helm, Mahathir is back in the limelight. Who is the actual Prime Minister now? I am confused. Mahathir wants the crooked bridge to be reinstalled and the teaching of English for mathematics and science to continue in spite of several objections from all quarters. Najib had in mind not to participate in the Penanti bye election but Mahathir insisted and he wants to lead the BN pact to wrestle the seat from Anwar political party. Mahathir really hate Anwar’s gut. The rakyat is watching where Najib is heading to. Mahathirsm???
Mahathir is a figure always associate with figures. He started with 2M. Mahathir and Musa but Musa resigned. Mahathir ordered Musa to attack Memali and at the same time Mahathir left for China. Musa got the blame for the fiasco. Later Mahathir introduced 3M. Menulis, membaca dan mengira. That policy was quietly forgotten and replaced with teaching of mathematic and science subjects in English. Only the 2 subjects but he failed to emphasis on teaching of the English language itself. If the command of English is poor how in the hell you want to teach mathematics and science in English? After he retired, and Pak Lah became the Prime Minister another figure troubled Mahathir, the guys at 4th floor. He said the 4th floor boys ran the government and KJ, Pak Lah son in law became his bitter enemy. The feud was so bad that KJ was not even considered any cabinet post in Najib administration. On the other hand, Mahathir’s son who lost in the UMNO Youth Chief election was appointed as Deputy Minister of Trade. Who is the real Prime Minister now? The rakyat is thinking probably the nation is having 2 Prime Ministers or even 3. Who knows? Najib is indebted to the old man. Mahathir could easily finish him off when Najib was the Menteri Besar of Pahang. Instead Mahathir being a smart manipulator used his trump card to lure Najib to support him during the Mahathir/ Tengku Razaleigh fight for the UMNO Presidency, otherwise, Pulau Tioman legenda would be made public. The end result, Mahathir ruled for 22 years.
Mahathir used to say, Melayu mudah lupa (Malays easily forgot). Sorry Sir, this Melayu always remember.
Monday, April 20, 2009
MU Defeated.
Early morning of 20th.April, I was prepared to watch the live telecast of FA Cup semifinal with Everton at Wembly Stadium. Damn you, Sir Alex. He sends in rookies to face Everton full team. I could be made a better MU Manager. The atmosphere was Wembly not Old Trafford and this game was equally important, a place in the Final and another trophy in the cabinet. Any team who take on MU would give their 110% effort to beat the World Club Champion. Majority of the rookies were short compared to the lanky Evertonian and MU mostly lost high balls. There was no Ronaldo, no Rooney, no Ryan Giggs, no Van Der Sarr and no Berbatov in the starting line up. I wonder what was in Sir Alex’s brain? True there would be the European Cup to face and also to maintain the BPL leader board but the semi final playoff was also important. What that bloody Sir Alex should do was to initially dispatch his strong full team, scored a couple of goals then send in the rookies to sustain Everton. In a war, you don’t send newly commissioned recruits at the frontline.
The game stretched to 120 minutes with no goals from both side. The game had to be decided by penalty kick. I crossed my fingers and the first shot at goal by the Everton player went wide. Winning was on sight but when Berbatov took the kick, even my Grandmother could block the kick because it was so soft. Adding insult to injury, Ferdinand kick was well read by Howard, the Everton keeper and was once MU goalkeeper. From there on, I knew MU was going to bit the dust. Eventually Everton won the game and the desire MU to win 5 trophies in a season gone with the win.
For the European Cup and the BPL Cup, I doubt MU would be able to keep those cups in their cabinet and as an ardent fan, I have no hope. Sir Alex, please stop chewing the gum, you look more like a cow in the grazing pasture. You better learn more about strategies and how to win.
The game stretched to 120 minutes with no goals from both side. The game had to be decided by penalty kick. I crossed my fingers and the first shot at goal by the Everton player went wide. Winning was on sight but when Berbatov took the kick, even my Grandmother could block the kick because it was so soft. Adding insult to injury, Ferdinand kick was well read by Howard, the Everton keeper and was once MU goalkeeper. From there on, I knew MU was going to bit the dust. Eventually Everton won the game and the desire MU to win 5 trophies in a season gone with the win.
For the European Cup and the BPL Cup, I doubt MU would be able to keep those cups in their cabinet and as an ardent fan, I have no hope. Sir Alex, please stop chewing the gum, you look more like a cow in the grazing pasture. You better learn more about strategies and how to win.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
The Sunday without Shasha.
Normally on Sunday, Shasha would come to my house around noon and her father would pick her up after the Isyakh prayer. Shasha is a cute two and the half year old girl and the darling of the family. After lunch on Sunday, we normally take her to the Mall and let her loose at the children play area. This Sunday, we are without Shasha and we really miss her play acting.
Yesterday I got a call from Alor Star and Shasha insisted on talking to me. She was with her parents in Alor Star attending a family wedding. According to the father she was having a slight fever. I was shocked when the father told me she was trapped in the car with her little brother for two hours. While refueling on the way to Alor Star, Shasha’s mother went to get some drinks at the Mart and the father was with Shahsha at the back adjusting her comfortably. In the meantime, Darwis the little boy mischievously activated the door auto lock without the father realizing. When the father closed the door, the two children were trapped and all windows were intact. Shasha was asleep and the one half year old Darwis could not understand sign language to deactivate the auto lock. The engine was on and to make things worse, Darwis switched on the heater. When Shasha felt the heat, she was awakened and all hell broke loose. Both of them were wailing in the car.
After two hours, the spare key arrived from home and the fiasco ended. Darwis did not make the journey to Alor Star and he was taken back to Port Klang. The poor kid was in a shock state.
The family is my neighbor and I have reminded Shasha father too often that he got to be extra careful when the children are inside the car. I have told him whenever he wants to open the gate, make sure the car engine is off and the key taken out. I have taken Shasha for a ride several times and I noticed she is a bit hyper active and very playful. I had the experience of bringing up my two small kids before and I am please to pass on tips to others about child upbringing related to moving vehicles.
To those who have young children: Never leave them alone in the car especially with the engine on. To play safe when the car is stationed make sure one of the window is unwind. The best precaution, switch off the engine and take off the key. One important advice, always switch off the car engine when refueling especially when you have passengers in the car. Always play safe rather than regret later.
Yesterday I got a call from Alor Star and Shasha insisted on talking to me. She was with her parents in Alor Star attending a family wedding. According to the father she was having a slight fever. I was shocked when the father told me she was trapped in the car with her little brother for two hours. While refueling on the way to Alor Star, Shasha’s mother went to get some drinks at the Mart and the father was with Shahsha at the back adjusting her comfortably. In the meantime, Darwis the little boy mischievously activated the door auto lock without the father realizing. When the father closed the door, the two children were trapped and all windows were intact. Shasha was asleep and the one half year old Darwis could not understand sign language to deactivate the auto lock. The engine was on and to make things worse, Darwis switched on the heater. When Shasha felt the heat, she was awakened and all hell broke loose. Both of them were wailing in the car.
After two hours, the spare key arrived from home and the fiasco ended. Darwis did not make the journey to Alor Star and he was taken back to Port Klang. The poor kid was in a shock state.
The family is my neighbor and I have reminded Shasha father too often that he got to be extra careful when the children are inside the car. I have told him whenever he wants to open the gate, make sure the car engine is off and the key taken out. I have taken Shasha for a ride several times and I noticed she is a bit hyper active and very playful. I had the experience of bringing up my two small kids before and I am please to pass on tips to others about child upbringing related to moving vehicles.
To those who have young children: Never leave them alone in the car especially with the engine on. To play safe when the car is stationed make sure one of the window is unwind. The best precaution, switch off the engine and take off the key. One important advice, always switch off the car engine when refueling especially when you have passengers in the car. Always play safe rather than regret later.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
TM Breakdown.
My internet connection went buzz since the evening of 15th. April. During the day, there were TM Technicians meddling with the junction box behind my house as they claimed that they were changing to a new cable. I thought the cpu screwed up and I changed to my spare. Same problem occurred I could not excess to the internet and I gave up. Following day, while I was in Penang, I contacted my other half through the house phone but it was not picked up. Finally I got her through the hand phone and she told me the house phone was not ringing. Now I know, telekom line must be the culprit why I was having problem with my internet connection.
I reported to Telekom Malaysia on 17th.April, and nothing was done. Early morning of 18th.April I called them again and they ensure the problem would be rectified latest by 19th April noon. Sometimes at 1100 hrs, on 18th.April, TM Technician came and he found out that the line to my house was dislodged from the socket at the junction box. The Technicians who came on 15th.April did not do a proper job. The Technician fixed the problem and in no time I got back my house phone and my internet line.
The morale here: Incompetence on TM part. Due to the incompetence, it could lead to unforeseen circumstances. What if we need to call an ambulance and the house phone was immobile. I still believe, when you want to do something, do it properly, otherwise don’t do it. Further more if you do not know how to do it leave it to the expert. Don’t pretend to be smart for we may jeopardize others. I learnt this etiquette from my Seniors during my ESSO days at the Refinery, way back in the 60s.
I reported to Telekom Malaysia on 17th.April, and nothing was done. Early morning of 18th.April I called them again and they ensure the problem would be rectified latest by 19th April noon. Sometimes at 1100 hrs, on 18th.April, TM Technician came and he found out that the line to my house was dislodged from the socket at the junction box. The Technicians who came on 15th.April did not do a proper job. The Technician fixed the problem and in no time I got back my house phone and my internet line.
The morale here: Incompetence on TM part. Due to the incompetence, it could lead to unforeseen circumstances. What if we need to call an ambulance and the house phone was immobile. I still believe, when you want to do something, do it properly, otherwise don’t do it. Further more if you do not know how to do it leave it to the expert. Don’t pretend to be smart for we may jeopardize others. I learnt this etiquette from my Seniors during my ESSO days at the Refinery, way back in the 60s.
Under the Coconut Tree.
I have to rush up to Penang on 16th.April to meet the deadline of 1200 hrs at one of the Government Office to submit an important tender. After watching the Manchester United game against Porto which ended at 0430 hrs, I had my early morning shower, picked up two other friends and we left sharp at 0500 hrs. At 0830 hrs we were already at Juru and stopped for breakfast. We crossed by the Penang Bridge and turned left towards Tanjong Uban. We were much too early for the appointment. We completed all our appointment and formalities at the Government Office at 1030 hours.
We decided to have lunch at Bedong, a famous food stall under a coconut tree. I used to patronize this place for lunch during my regular trip up north during my working days. The food stall laid their tables under some shady trees and the atmosphere is unique. We exit at Sungai Petani south and headed to Tanjong Dawai via Merbok. I like to visit this place to get varieties of fried fish and anchovies. Tanjong Dawai is a fishing village and they have bazaar selling all sorts of products from the sea. The shrimp paste (belacan) sold here is very famous for its taste and the way it is made. We wandered around the bazaar and picked up all the things that I was interested including a few packets of the special shrimp paste. I would pass some to my neighbors.
It was about noon and we left Tanjong Dawai for Bedong, the coconut tree food stall. The same Nyonya was still there and the environment did not change much. We sat down and we ordered food for three. My special order was shell less crabs dip with flour, bean sprout with dried fish and siakap curry. As we were waiting for the food we heard a screech and right in front of our eyes, a motor bike smacked into the left side of a car. The Rider and his pillion were thrown off from the motor bike and luckily there was no serious injury to all parties. The food came and one of my friends had for the first time tasted shell less crab. The bill came to only RM 43. Still pretty cheap, I guess but I think the price had slightly gone up compared to those days.
Its time to hit for home and we joined the PLUS highway at Sungai Petani north. On the way we stopped at Bukit Gantang, Tapah and Bukit Jelutong Rest Area. At 1900 hrs we were safely back to base.
We decided to have lunch at Bedong, a famous food stall under a coconut tree. I used to patronize this place for lunch during my regular trip up north during my working days. The food stall laid their tables under some shady trees and the atmosphere is unique. We exit at Sungai Petani south and headed to Tanjong Dawai via Merbok. I like to visit this place to get varieties of fried fish and anchovies. Tanjong Dawai is a fishing village and they have bazaar selling all sorts of products from the sea. The shrimp paste (belacan) sold here is very famous for its taste and the way it is made. We wandered around the bazaar and picked up all the things that I was interested including a few packets of the special shrimp paste. I would pass some to my neighbors.
It was about noon and we left Tanjong Dawai for Bedong, the coconut tree food stall. The same Nyonya was still there and the environment did not change much. We sat down and we ordered food for three. My special order was shell less crabs dip with flour, bean sprout with dried fish and siakap curry. As we were waiting for the food we heard a screech and right in front of our eyes, a motor bike smacked into the left side of a car. The Rider and his pillion were thrown off from the motor bike and luckily there was no serious injury to all parties. The food came and one of my friends had for the first time tasted shell less crab. The bill came to only RM 43. Still pretty cheap, I guess but I think the price had slightly gone up compared to those days.
Its time to hit for home and we joined the PLUS highway at Sungai Petani north. On the way we stopped at Bukit Gantang, Tapah and Bukit Jelutong Rest Area. At 1900 hrs we were safely back to base.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Jusco to my aid.
Saturday night, I realized I ran out of Adalat 30. I felt quite restless and felt that my blood pressure was inconsistent. As an indication my ears were getting warm. Adalat 30 is antidote for hypertension.
Sunday morning after breakfast went to the normal Pharmacy but closed on Sunday and checking with others, they too closed. I started thinking of alternatives and solutions. I searched for the authorized prescription letter from my Consultant Specialist and went to the nearest Jaya Jusco looking for a Pharmacy. I walked into Caring Pharmacy and got two boxes of Adalat 30 without any formality. It surprised me, it was so easy. Now I know the trick, run to the Mall if you run out of medicines on Sunday.
Saturday night, my wife advised me not to watch the BPL, Sunderland versus Manchester United. I eagerly wanted to know the result and to my relief it favored MU with a 2 – 1 score. Macheda did it again and he was the match winner. I normally get excited when MU is involved in a game and I only settle for a win. In spite of Liverpool astounding win before the Sunderland/MU game MU maintain the leader board.
Sunday morning after breakfast went to the normal Pharmacy but closed on Sunday and checking with others, they too closed. I started thinking of alternatives and solutions. I searched for the authorized prescription letter from my Consultant Specialist and went to the nearest Jaya Jusco looking for a Pharmacy. I walked into Caring Pharmacy and got two boxes of Adalat 30 without any formality. It surprised me, it was so easy. Now I know the trick, run to the Mall if you run out of medicines on Sunday.
Saturday night, my wife advised me not to watch the BPL, Sunderland versus Manchester United. I eagerly wanted to know the result and to my relief it favored MU with a 2 – 1 score. Macheda did it again and he was the match winner. I normally get excited when MU is involved in a game and I only settle for a win. In spite of Liverpool astounding win before the Sunderland/MU game MU maintain the leader board.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Badak berendam.
The Saturday afternoon was occupied attending a khenduri tahlil at my cousin’s place at Damansara Heights. The feast also coincided with 36 years wedding anniversary of Datok Malek and Datin Zawiyah and an engagement of Irman, their second son.
Function started at 1130 hrs with the tahlil followed by buffet luncheon. Close relatives and friends were there and to me it is always a pleasure meeting the kinsmen to catch up with the latest news. It was very nice to see the elder statesman and the juniors mixing in tandem exchanging the topics of the day. Jeffrul, Malek younger brother, hot topic was his golf adventures and he always catches me to be his sparring mate. We chatted and laughed at his jovial antics. He commented that I look very much fitter after the mild stroke and asked me what the secret is. Jokingly I told him I gave up golf of which he totally disagreed. My two elder brothers were present too so as the uncles and aunties. Politics, though discussed but not that sensational. The juniors mostly talked about the latest of the British Premier League that caught the common interest of the seniors as well.
There was plenty of food on the table and of several varieties. The beef rending, gulai nangka, ayam masak merah and pecal. We have various ulam kampong came with tempoyak masak. For dessert, Datin Zawiyah knew that my favourite kuih was badak berendam and she specially ordered for me. The black coffee came all the way from Kluang. I avoided the pulut kuning and tapai as it was too rich for my blood. The sago, however, tempted me and I added only a little bit of red sugar and coconut milk just to get the taste. Pak Itam took pulut kuning by itself and refused the kerang as he has gout. Uchu Mawi, declared as the most expensive Driver of the day as he had to drive my brother, to the function who just had his left eye cataract removed a couple of days ago.
Irman introduced me to his wife to be and insyaalah, the wedding would be in January 2010.
Function started at 1130 hrs with the tahlil followed by buffet luncheon. Close relatives and friends were there and to me it is always a pleasure meeting the kinsmen to catch up with the latest news. It was very nice to see the elder statesman and the juniors mixing in tandem exchanging the topics of the day. Jeffrul, Malek younger brother, hot topic was his golf adventures and he always catches me to be his sparring mate. We chatted and laughed at his jovial antics. He commented that I look very much fitter after the mild stroke and asked me what the secret is. Jokingly I told him I gave up golf of which he totally disagreed. My two elder brothers were present too so as the uncles and aunties. Politics, though discussed but not that sensational. The juniors mostly talked about the latest of the British Premier League that caught the common interest of the seniors as well.
There was plenty of food on the table and of several varieties. The beef rending, gulai nangka, ayam masak merah and pecal. We have various ulam kampong came with tempoyak masak. For dessert, Datin Zawiyah knew that my favourite kuih was badak berendam and she specially ordered for me. The black coffee came all the way from Kluang. I avoided the pulut kuning and tapai as it was too rich for my blood. The sago, however, tempted me and I added only a little bit of red sugar and coconut milk just to get the taste. Pak Itam took pulut kuning by itself and refused the kerang as he has gout. Uchu Mawi, declared as the most expensive Driver of the day as he had to drive my brother, to the function who just had his left eye cataract removed a couple of days ago.
Irman introduced me to his wife to be and insyaalah, the wedding would be in January 2010.
Friday, April 10, 2009
No big deal.
Najib the new Prime Minister made a new cabinet announcement yesterday and it was the same day, the Shah Alam High Court sentenced two police personnel to the gallows. Both episodes were not a big deal to me and not a surprise.
The two police personnel would appeal to the higher courts and my prediction would be a life sentence and after a while would be a pardon. I remember, an up and coming Politician once sentenced to the gallows, pardoned and now a free man. Precedent had been set. For the two police personnel, though they were not a Politicians but the murder was politically motivated and indirectly connected to the think tank of the Deputy Prime Minister who is now the Prime Minister. Whatever, I still do not subscribe to capital punishment by death and prefer culprits to rot and die behind bars. We are not GOD to take someone life and if that someone take someone else life let him/her pay by being isolated from society forever till the last breath. Eventually he/she got to answer to GOD anyway for taking that someone life.
Khairy Jamaluddin known as KJ, the son in law of the former Prime Minister and the UMNO Youth Wing Chief was excluded from the cabinet lineup. I was not surprised and I was not even surprised when the defeated UMNO Youth Chief candidate, the son of the famous ex Prime Minister Mahathir was included instead. The political jig saw off late is now being put to place. Mahathir openly condemn KJ, rejoined UMNO and went to campaign for BN candidates at the two Bukits. These couple of months would be politically interesting and I would love to watch the fun. My happiest moment when the new cabinet line up excluded the two Mohammad. One of Pak Lah blunder was to recruit him as a Senator and appointed him as a Minister. Malaysians fully know he took bags of money to Brisbane and on top of that he eloped with the Sultan’s daughter and initially denied to the Sultan. The same man, got the cheek to label Nizar as treason (derhaka) to the Perak Sultan? Give me a break, Mike. Till today, I am still wondering why Pak Lah took him in.
The cabinet line up was nothing spectacular to me. I am not hoping any drastic changes. The same old policy would persist and the opposition would remain oppressed. Public media propaganda would be status quo, nothing good about the opposition political parties. Only the ruling parties can deliver and unite the people as forever claim by the ruling party since 1957.
As for me, I don’t care who is who in the cabinet. I don’t care a damn. If the country administration is corrupt free and make a drastic reform, I would change too. Malaysia is my country and I love my country. I would oppose anybody who brings my country to doom.
Najib Razak…..you better hear me. Remember, one vote can change the Government.
See you at PRU 13, insyaalah at whatever circumstances.
The two police personnel would appeal to the higher courts and my prediction would be a life sentence and after a while would be a pardon. I remember, an up and coming Politician once sentenced to the gallows, pardoned and now a free man. Precedent had been set. For the two police personnel, though they were not a Politicians but the murder was politically motivated and indirectly connected to the think tank of the Deputy Prime Minister who is now the Prime Minister. Whatever, I still do not subscribe to capital punishment by death and prefer culprits to rot and die behind bars. We are not GOD to take someone life and if that someone take someone else life let him/her pay by being isolated from society forever till the last breath. Eventually he/she got to answer to GOD anyway for taking that someone life.
Khairy Jamaluddin known as KJ, the son in law of the former Prime Minister and the UMNO Youth Wing Chief was excluded from the cabinet lineup. I was not surprised and I was not even surprised when the defeated UMNO Youth Chief candidate, the son of the famous ex Prime Minister Mahathir was included instead. The political jig saw off late is now being put to place. Mahathir openly condemn KJ, rejoined UMNO and went to campaign for BN candidates at the two Bukits. These couple of months would be politically interesting and I would love to watch the fun. My happiest moment when the new cabinet line up excluded the two Mohammad. One of Pak Lah blunder was to recruit him as a Senator and appointed him as a Minister. Malaysians fully know he took bags of money to Brisbane and on top of that he eloped with the Sultan’s daughter and initially denied to the Sultan. The same man, got the cheek to label Nizar as treason (derhaka) to the Perak Sultan? Give me a break, Mike. Till today, I am still wondering why Pak Lah took him in.
The cabinet line up was nothing spectacular to me. I am not hoping any drastic changes. The same old policy would persist and the opposition would remain oppressed. Public media propaganda would be status quo, nothing good about the opposition political parties. Only the ruling parties can deliver and unite the people as forever claim by the ruling party since 1957.
As for me, I don’t care who is who in the cabinet. I don’t care a damn. If the country administration is corrupt free and make a drastic reform, I would change too. Malaysia is my country and I love my country. I would oppose anybody who brings my country to doom.
Najib Razak…..you better hear me. Remember, one vote can change the Government.
See you at PRU 13, insyaalah at whatever circumstances.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Post mortem and surgery.
Today everybody is doing a post mortem about yesterday elections. All sort of excuses and pointing of fingers. Those who lost felt the pain and misery of being defeated. I too felt the pain. One of my teeth was troubling me.
I went to see my Dentist and he recommended surgery to extract the problematic tooth. I was scared as that was the first time I had to part with one of my teeth. He assured me of the best anesthetic and completely painless. True enough, it was over within ten minutes. Thank you Dr Raj and from now on I would face you anytime without any doubt and fear. It cost me RM 170 for the surgery and the medic. No hot drinks and food for next one week and next week the stitches would be removed. For me, it would be no big deal.
My agony was over, but I do not know the agony of those Politicians who bit the dust yesterday. I had to bit the cotton bud to prevent bleeding.
Dato Sri Nizar, you still got to do a post mortem of your victory. There are more elections to come for better achievments.
I went to see my Dentist and he recommended surgery to extract the problematic tooth. I was scared as that was the first time I had to part with one of my teeth. He assured me of the best anesthetic and completely painless. True enough, it was over within ten minutes. Thank you Dr Raj and from now on I would face you anytime without any doubt and fear. It cost me RM 170 for the surgery and the medic. No hot drinks and food for next one week and next week the stitches would be removed. For me, it would be no big deal.
My agony was over, but I do not know the agony of those Politicians who bit the dust yesterday. I had to bit the cotton bud to prevent bleeding.
Dato Sri Nizar, you still got to do a post mortem of your victory. There are more elections to come for better achievments.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Hooray!!!
PAS won in Bukit Gantang, so as PKR at Bukit Selambau. We captured the two Bukit but lost Batang Ai. Where the hell is this place? Never mind, what is important to me most was Bukit Gantang. I wanted PAS to win there because it is in Perak, my home state which was high jacked lately. I am still sore about the takeover which was manipulated ungentlemanly. I salute the voters in Bukit Gantang who transformed the deposed Menteri Besar of Perak to Parliament. He will be facing Najib in Parliament. That would be interesting.
At Bukit Gantang and Bukit Selambau, they brought the retired Prime Minister who just jumped back to UMNO to campaign for the ruling party but it did not work to their favor.
My wish of 3 – 0 did not materialize but a score of 2 – 1 was good enough. I postponed my appointment with the Dentist today in order to catch up with the election vide internet. Tomorrow I would have that tooth removed and am also scared like hell just like waiting for the election results. It would be recorded in my life history that the first time I extract a tooth is the day after Ir Nizar Jamaluddin won the Bukit Gantang Parliamentary seat.
At Bukit Gantang and Bukit Selambau, they brought the retired Prime Minister who just jumped back to UMNO to campaign for the ruling party but it did not work to their favor.
My wish of 3 – 0 did not materialize but a score of 2 – 1 was good enough. I postponed my appointment with the Dentist today in order to catch up with the election vide internet. Tomorrow I would have that tooth removed and am also scared like hell just like waiting for the election results. It would be recorded in my life history that the first time I extract a tooth is the day after Ir Nizar Jamaluddin won the Bukit Gantang Parliamentary seat.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Ketuanan Melayu.
While I was browsing the various web sites to get the latest at the two Bukit and one Batang, I received a short message from my elder brother:
Whats d latest chance of the “Chinese stooge (He is referring to Ir Nizar Jamaluddin at Bukit Gantang).
Sarcastically, I replied: The chance is One Tee Keat would be d first Timbalan Perdana Menteri.
He must be very upset that I pulled his leg and he replied: That will be d day Malays menonggeng & Anwar having a field day. Kah kah kah.
I refused to response as I fully know that he is anti Anwar and moreover he is a retired senior government servant and once a “tali barut” to the ruling party. He is one guy who is suffering from acute superiority complex among his juniors and cannot accept loosing an argument.
The rationale: He cannot accept or rather the Malays cannot accept a Chinese to be the Timbalan Perdana Menteri. So, where are we heading to when we are talking about perpaduan and sharing to govern this country? He is still adopting the ketuanan melayu ideology which of course I disagree and it should be by now after 50 years of independence, Malaysia should go towards ketuanan rakyat. In politic, I am more liberal and I don’t care who the hell is running the government as long as it is clean and corrupt free. My tagline is JUSTICE.
On the eve of the two Bukit and one Batang, I still hope for a 3-0 score. Other scores, we had to work harder to change the mindset of the ultras, my brother included.
Whats d latest chance of the “Chinese stooge (He is referring to Ir Nizar Jamaluddin at Bukit Gantang).
Sarcastically, I replied: The chance is One Tee Keat would be d first Timbalan Perdana Menteri.
He must be very upset that I pulled his leg and he replied: That will be d day Malays menonggeng & Anwar having a field day. Kah kah kah.
I refused to response as I fully know that he is anti Anwar and moreover he is a retired senior government servant and once a “tali barut” to the ruling party. He is one guy who is suffering from acute superiority complex among his juniors and cannot accept loosing an argument.
The rationale: He cannot accept or rather the Malays cannot accept a Chinese to be the Timbalan Perdana Menteri. So, where are we heading to when we are talking about perpaduan and sharing to govern this country? He is still adopting the ketuanan melayu ideology which of course I disagree and it should be by now after 50 years of independence, Malaysia should go towards ketuanan rakyat. In politic, I am more liberal and I don’t care who the hell is running the government as long as it is clean and corrupt free. My tagline is JUSTICE.
On the eve of the two Bukit and one Batang, I still hope for a 3-0 score. Other scores, we had to work harder to change the mindset of the ultras, my brother included.
Fedrico Macheda.
The score line was 2 Aston and 1 MU at Old Trafford. I was furious and not again. MU could not afford to loose this game and they were trailing. It would be a three game straight loss and uphill task to regain superemacy at the table. I began to curse Rooney for being so hot tempered, Sir Alex for chewing too much gum and Vidic for handling the ball at the goalmouth. I could not bear to see MU loosing this game and I decided to hit the sack.
As soon as I laid my head on the pillow, I heard the shout of goal from across the road at the Warong where several young boys were watching the game. I switched on the TV to peep what was going on whether an equalizer or Aston had added another one. It was an equalizer and I now have hope. A draw was not that bad. In the last ten minutes Sir Alex pulled out Teves and replaced by a nineteen year old novice, Fedrico Macheda. I did not have hope except to have fresh legs in the field. During the extra five minutes, about three minutes to the dugout, Fedrico Macheda created a miracle. He scored a goal from a very tight spot where the goal was at his back. The Commentator even said, if Gerard can do it, so as Fredrico.
The score read as MU 3 and Aston 2. Fedrico got the player of the game tag and a bottle of champagne. MU was now again at the top of the table and I went to bed. No wonder the British Premier League is the world favorite sport.
As soon as I laid my head on the pillow, I heard the shout of goal from across the road at the Warong where several young boys were watching the game. I switched on the TV to peep what was going on whether an equalizer or Aston had added another one. It was an equalizer and I now have hope. A draw was not that bad. In the last ten minutes Sir Alex pulled out Teves and replaced by a nineteen year old novice, Fedrico Macheda. I did not have hope except to have fresh legs in the field. During the extra five minutes, about three minutes to the dugout, Fedrico Macheda created a miracle. He scored a goal from a very tight spot where the goal was at his back. The Commentator even said, if Gerard can do it, so as Fredrico.
The score read as MU 3 and Aston 2. Fedrico got the player of the game tag and a bottle of champagne. MU was now again at the top of the table and I went to bed. No wonder the British Premier League is the world favorite sport.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Pending.
I am amazed that certain people, especially from the Opposition can be recall to the Balai Polis and charged in Court that soon. I have two court cases which I do not know what had happened. Is it pending or thrown out?
Case No 1: An embezzlement case by my former staff in Butterworth. This case is more than ten years, sometimes in 1993. I have now even retired and the Company where I was attached to is now sold off to a Giant. I am sure the culprit is smiling away. So, what happen next?
Case No 2: My car, Mercedes 190, an antique, collector’s item was stolen sometimes in 2001. The high jacker was caught and in the lock up for a week. He was released with a police bail. Pending court cases, I could recover the car from police custody but had to sign a bond with Telok Datok Magistrate court. The court case never came up and I am still tied with the bond. I cannot sell the car either. So, where are we heading?
WHERE DO I TURN TO FOR CLARIFICATION?
Case No 1: An embezzlement case by my former staff in Butterworth. This case is more than ten years, sometimes in 1993. I have now even retired and the Company where I was attached to is now sold off to a Giant. I am sure the culprit is smiling away. So, what happen next?
Case No 2: My car, Mercedes 190, an antique, collector’s item was stolen sometimes in 2001. The high jacker was caught and in the lock up for a week. He was released with a police bail. Pending court cases, I could recover the car from police custody but had to sign a bond with Telok Datok Magistrate court. The court case never came up and I am still tied with the bond. I cannot sell the car either. So, where are we heading?
WHERE DO I TURN TO FOR CLARIFICATION?
Friday, April 3, 2009
Najib Razak.
Najib Razak was sworn as the 6th Prime Minister of Malaysia on 3rd April 2009.
scroll down.
I am leaving the space blank as I have my reservation. I hope one day, I will fill in the blank.
Najib, please prove me wrong.
scroll down.
I am leaving the space blank as I have my reservation. I hope one day, I will fill in the blank.
Najib, please prove me wrong.
Pak Lah 2003 - 2009.
He resigned as Prime Minister of Malaysia on 2nd April 2009. When he took over from Dr Mahathir in 2003, I had very high hope of him and I eagerly waited for reformation. The most appropriate man as Prime Minister, the son of an Ulamak and one Politician who was seen to be very clean and scandal free. My top priority, I wanted him to eradicate corruption and abolish money politic within the ruling party. In the 2004 general election I gave him my vote, so as majority of Malaysians and the Opposition parties was badly thrased. He even got back Trengganu from PAS. As time went by, the Mr. Clean Man was not everybody as expected. In the 2008 election, the ruling party was trounced in Peninsular Malaysia. It was Sabah and Sarawak that salvage the ruling party back to power but losing the 2/3 majority in Parliament. The ruling party failed to capture Kelantan and adding salt to the injury, they lost four states to the Opposition. They lost their gold mines, Selangor, Perak and Penang. Most fingers were pointed at Pak Lah even his close allies. The most bitter was Dr Mahathir and the old man resigned from being a party member.
Pak Lah as I see it. My personal opinion.
1) Was too weak compared to his predecessor. Unlike Dr.Mahathir who was very smart in tackling potential problems. Mahathir never gave face to the Oppositions and even to component parties within the ruling government. He either told them to shut up or shoo them away. Pak Lah gave a lot of lee way to the people surrounding him.
2) KJ factor. Khairy Jamaluddin is Pak Lah son in law. He parachuted into UMNO, not starting from the grass root and overnight he became the Youth Deputy uncontested. Anyway, who dare to contest against the PM son in law if you want to be in the good book of the PM? KJ is arrogant who wanted to be the youngest PM of Malaysia. Mahathir branded KJ as the 4th.Floor Man who did all the decisions for Pak Lah, the Prime Minister. KJ was given a Parliamentary seat to contest during the 2008 General Election and he won. That made plenty of blood pressure shooting up, including me of course. KJ was mostly blamed for the terrible loss of UMNO as he was alleged to be the mastermind of choosing the candidates to stand for the general election.
3) Hindraf. This organization wanted to petition to the Queen of England. So be it, let them go. The Police came into the picture and water canon was sprayed to the demonstrators. The Leaders were detained under the Internal Security Act, detention without trial. This angered the Indian community and they solidly turned their back at the ruling government during the 2008 general election. Malaysian Indian Congress Party paid a heavy loss including the long time President.
4) Anwar Ibrahim. Pak Lah should hold the election after Anwar was eligible to stand for election. Anwar was unable to participate therefore he got all the time in the world to go round Malaysia and campaign for the Oppositions. If Anwar was allowed to participate, he would have only concentrat at his own constituency. I don’t blame Anwar because he had an axe to grind against the ruling party whose Leader once sacked him as Deputy Prime Minister. He was so near but yet so far. He suffered his fate six years in jail. Who would not be vindictive?
5) Islam Hadhari. Personally it was the first time I heard the word hadhari. Only President Bush and UMNO Ulamaks subscribe to Islam Hadhari. Tolerant and civilization. This Islam Hadhari concept was not well receipt by Malaysian Muslims. Maybe the idea was good but the word after Islam that make a lot of Malaysian Muslim confused. The Islam they know is the one that they were taught since they were born and no such thing as Islam dot dot dot. Since Pak Lah was the son of an Ulamak that make people got more confused and suspicious as if Pak Lah was introducing a new religion. A new branch of religion made by Pak Lah.
8) Corruption & money Politic. It became rampant and too obvious. Actions only taken at small fishes while the big one loose free. Some Politicians even built an Istana and no action taken. With this Istana, the ruling government lost the state of Selangor. Malaysians are no more stupid. Even KJ, Pak Lah son in law was found abetting to money politic but KJ just got a warning. The Malaysians are seeing that the ruling government under Pak Lah was not serious in combating corruption and money politic.
Whatever, Pak Lah created several records as Prime Minister of Malaysia. He was the first Prime Minister whose wife passed away while he was the PM and not long after the first PM to get married in office. He was also the Prime Minister who got the biggest majority in any general election (2004) and the least in any election (2008).
Pak Lah…..thank you for freeing Anwar Ibrahim.
Happy Retirement, Pak Lah.
Merdeka.
Where was I on Merdeka Day?
When Malaya achieved its independence on 31st August 1957, I was in Std 4 and I think it was a school term break because I was in Ipoh with my parents. I happened to be at 24 Hill Road Ipoh, the Penghulu official residence. At the strike of 12 when Malaya achieved its independence, probably I was in my dreamland. In the morning I walked to the Ipoh Club Padang to witness the state declaration. Unfortunately, to be honest at that time I don’t really know what Merdeka actually meant. It was a big gathering and the people shouted Merdeka, Merdeka, Merdeka. It was just a celebration and that was the first time in my life I witnessed a huge gathering. As a small kid, I enjoyed watching the band procession.
Now after 52 years, are we fully Merdeka yet? I cannot elaborate because I am not Merdeka enough to say what I like from my perception. Whatever….I am already 63+ and que sera sera, what will be, will be.
My father in law, Abdul Rahman bin Ali was recruited by the British as number 83 in the Askar Melayu and he fought in World War II and the Communists. He retired as Warrant Officer II. My uncle, Osman bin Kamaruddin, Regimental No 4853 of 4th. Royal Malay Regiment fought against the Communist and served with the United Nations in Congo in 1960. He was known as Osman Tiger and retired as Warrant Officer 1. My father Abdul Hamid Abdullah was a Penghulu during World War II and throughout the Communist era. He was nearly killed by the Communists in Sungkai. When he was the Penghulu of Ipoh in 1955 to 1959, he was an ardent follower of Dato Panglima Bukit Gantang of National Action Party (NAP). DPBG was also included in the Tunku Abdul Rahman entourage for Merdeka negotiation from the British in London.
I remember when I was young in the early 50s, few SC (Special Constable) was killed by the Communist around the kampong where I lived. I was living with my grandparents. The Chinese living nearby the kampong was rounded up by the British and relocated to a new village of Kampong Coldstream. The Village still exists today and it’s on the left side between Sungkai and Bidor by the old highway. My grandfather was separated with his good Chinaman friends. These Chinaman, by forced had to live in a commune surrounded by barb wire and guarded by Special Constables. They were strictly scanned when they went out to work in the rubber estates and tin mines so that the Communists have no access of food. The British were the one who initiated the segregation formula.
The Malays in my kampong stay put in the kampong and they continued with their normal living. By then, they had to set up a cooperative sundry shop, a barber shop, bicycle repair shop and a rubber dealer shop. They had no choice because those activities were done by the Chinaman and all the Chinaman was rounded up by the British. In a way it was good, the Malays learned to be independent and did not rely on the Chinaman anymore. My grandfather became a Homeguard and at night he had to take turn to protect the kampong from any terrorist’s insurgents.
Kampong Bikam…….that was some memories of pre Merdeka days.
When Malaya achieved its independence on 31st August 1957, I was in Std 4 and I think it was a school term break because I was in Ipoh with my parents. I happened to be at 24 Hill Road Ipoh, the Penghulu official residence. At the strike of 12 when Malaya achieved its independence, probably I was in my dreamland. In the morning I walked to the Ipoh Club Padang to witness the state declaration. Unfortunately, to be honest at that time I don’t really know what Merdeka actually meant. It was a big gathering and the people shouted Merdeka, Merdeka, Merdeka. It was just a celebration and that was the first time in my life I witnessed a huge gathering. As a small kid, I enjoyed watching the band procession.
Now after 52 years, are we fully Merdeka yet? I cannot elaborate because I am not Merdeka enough to say what I like from my perception. Whatever….I am already 63+ and que sera sera, what will be, will be.
My father in law, Abdul Rahman bin Ali was recruited by the British as number 83 in the Askar Melayu and he fought in World War II and the Communists. He retired as Warrant Officer II. My uncle, Osman bin Kamaruddin, Regimental No 4853 of 4th. Royal Malay Regiment fought against the Communist and served with the United Nations in Congo in 1960. He was known as Osman Tiger and retired as Warrant Officer 1. My father Abdul Hamid Abdullah was a Penghulu during World War II and throughout the Communist era. He was nearly killed by the Communists in Sungkai. When he was the Penghulu of Ipoh in 1955 to 1959, he was an ardent follower of Dato Panglima Bukit Gantang of National Action Party (NAP). DPBG was also included in the Tunku Abdul Rahman entourage for Merdeka negotiation from the British in London.
I remember when I was young in the early 50s, few SC (Special Constable) was killed by the Communist around the kampong where I lived. I was living with my grandparents. The Chinese living nearby the kampong was rounded up by the British and relocated to a new village of Kampong Coldstream. The Village still exists today and it’s on the left side between Sungkai and Bidor by the old highway. My grandfather was separated with his good Chinaman friends. These Chinaman, by forced had to live in a commune surrounded by barb wire and guarded by Special Constables. They were strictly scanned when they went out to work in the rubber estates and tin mines so that the Communists have no access of food. The British were the one who initiated the segregation formula.
The Malays in my kampong stay put in the kampong and they continued with their normal living. By then, they had to set up a cooperative sundry shop, a barber shop, bicycle repair shop and a rubber dealer shop. They had no choice because those activities were done by the Chinaman and all the Chinaman was rounded up by the British. In a way it was good, the Malays learned to be independent and did not rely on the Chinaman anymore. My grandfather became a Homeguard and at night he had to take turn to protect the kampong from any terrorist’s insurgents.
Kampong Bikam…….that was some memories of pre Merdeka days.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
April Fools Day.
I would never miss this date and significant to my life. I never thought this guy was going to fool me. On 1st April 1974 a boy was born to this world. I had a son, breach delivered and personally attended by the State Gynecologist, Dr John Loh. I sent my wife to Seremban Hospital on the wee of the morning, got her admitted and happily drove home to Port Dickson to sleep. I did not expect the little guy would want to see the world that early at 0744 hours. He was 6 lb 10 oz baby and greeted this world with his legs first.
In the afternoon visiting hours I casually walked to the Maternity Ward and to my surprise he was already born but no where to be seen. The nurse told me he was placed in the incubator for observation. Confidently he was born without crying. I rushed to the incubator room to greet him and inspected that he was normal child. Thank Allah, all were in perfect condition and I said a silent prayer.
In the evening he was returned to my wife’s room and it was the first time I could touched him. He opened his eyes and moving his lips like smiling. I would remember that moment all through my life. I gave the honor to late Cikgu Haji Said Othman to whisper the azan to his ears. It was the happiest day of my life. I sent two telegrams to my parent and parent in law to announce his arrival.
Two days later, he was taken home and late Hajjah Azizah Yusuf cuddled him all the way to Port Dickson.
We name him….Muzaffar. A combination of Mustapa and Hanizah. Muzaffar is also the name of a famous Melaka Sultanate.
In the afternoon visiting hours I casually walked to the Maternity Ward and to my surprise he was already born but no where to be seen. The nurse told me he was placed in the incubator for observation. Confidently he was born without crying. I rushed to the incubator room to greet him and inspected that he was normal child. Thank Allah, all were in perfect condition and I said a silent prayer.
In the evening he was returned to my wife’s room and it was the first time I could touched him. He opened his eyes and moving his lips like smiling. I would remember that moment all through my life. I gave the honor to late Cikgu Haji Said Othman to whisper the azan to his ears. It was the happiest day of my life. I sent two telegrams to my parent and parent in law to announce his arrival.
Two days later, he was taken home and late Hajjah Azizah Yusuf cuddled him all the way to Port Dickson.
We name him….Muzaffar. A combination of Mustapa and Hanizah. Muzaffar is also the name of a famous Melaka Sultanate.
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